The 28-year-old dutifully slotted home following Emmanuel Adebayor’s ball into the box with 28 minutes gone – sending White Hart Lane into deafening delirium. It proved to be the game’s only goal and as such it was a particularly pleasing contribution in the eyes of the likeable forward.

“I’m feeling really, really good and I’m really happy that we got the three points – ecstatic actually,” said Roberto.

“For the goal, I saw Ade had made the space and I thought if I can go into the gap in between the defenders I can open it up. I then obviously used my foot just to flick it around the keeper.

“It’s a big win. We’ve got a really difficult month coming up so to get the three points and to be in a position to build on that means everything at the moment.”

30,000-plus fans roared in unison upon Roberto’s long-awaited strike – his first since scoring from the penalty spot against Stoke City on December 29.

And after the game, the striker admitted he was somewhat taken aback by the adoration emanating from the terraces – and from elsewhere on the pitch.

“I’m speechless really,” he added. “The reaction really meant a lot to me. The fans were unbelievable all the way through and also my team-mates as well. They’ve really supported me throughout this period.”